Combe Woods, a woodland walk in East Devon
Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon
Coombe Woods is not a place that you are likely to stumble across accidentally. A beautiful small area of ancient woodland in East Devon, it is owned and maintained by the National Trust.
With the help of volunteers these woods are a being preserved for future generations. A relatively small area of woodland it makes for an easy circular walk of about 1 mile. Just far enough to blow away those winter cobwebs!
My visit was last May so looking lusciously green – it won’t be long now!
The main footpath takes you right around the outer edge of the woods with a few paths criss-crossing inside it.
To be honest it would be hard to get lost. Paths can be muddy and uneven so not really one for a pushchairs, but being a short route it’s ideal for small children.
A Spring Walk with My Mum
When we went last year, we were just too late to see the bluebells in full bloom, but I can imagine it looks lovely. Just writing about it is making me think about the heady scent they emit on a warm spring day. Oh I do hate to wish time away but come on Spring – we need you!
Whatever the time of year, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of these sheltered woodland paths. It’s a mix of ash and oak trees with wild flowers including orchids peering through the undergrowth. However it’s best known locally for it’s fabulous bluebell display in April and May.
If you do go with children remember to keep them on the paths so the delicate bluebells do not get trampled.
Adults can admire the views, enjoy the fresh air and just be. Enjoy your walk and relax.
Children can build a den, hunt for mini beasts, play hide and seek or just gallop around!
If you love being outside why not find out about volunteering to help the National Trust like these folk we chatted to.
How to Get There
Combe Woods are just outside Honiton on the other side of the A30 dual carriage way. To get there you need to head into Honiton and out of town under the dual carriageway.
Coming from the Axminster direction or the East end of the town, drive just a few 100 metres down the High Street and take the first turn right onto Clapper Lane. Follow the road out of the town, under the dual carriageway then it’s about 1/2 mile further as you go up the hill.
The woods are then on your left. Parking is not great, it’s just lay-by pull ins on the side of the road. You should see some National Trust signs to indicate you have arrived. Follow your nose and have a lovely wander.
If you need refreshments after your walk, Honiton has plenty of coffee shops. The Boston Tea Party is great, it’s dog friendly and has a lovely garden as well.
Looking For Other Walks in East Devon?
Other walks around Honiton include Roundball Hill which offers great views over the town and well as Dumpdon Hill Fort which is further up the hill from Coombe Wood. Also not far from Honiton is the lovely Offwell Woods. If you are on the bluebell trail then take a look at my bluebell woods guide.
Thank you for reading my blog posts.
Clare
Hi! I am Clare and I live in glorious East Devon with my family.
I love finding new places to explore in the West Country as well as further afield.
I hope you enjoy reading and taking inspiration from my blog.
What a gorgeous area to take a lovely walk! #GlobalBlogging
That looks like a lovely place for a walk. And I too am looking forward to warmer and sunnier days of spring! #AdventureCalling
The NT do fantastic work in looking after these places. I’ve seen the odd bluebell and one white this year but am looking forward to seeing lots growing together. #AdventureCalling
I cannot wait for spring, I think the bluebells may be a little late this year as it’s been so cold and grey for so long. Combe woods looks like a great place to explore, let’s just hope the weather starts cooperating soon! Thanks for sharing #AdventureCalling
This looks like a lovely walk in a gorgeous area. It’s great that you all got out together. My mum still joins us on family walks sporadically and it’s lovely when she comes. Thanks for joining us on #adventurecalling. We’ll be open again this evening for more new posts.